Cong Phuong makes a comeback, V-League set to explode

Nguyen Cong Phuong's comeback with Dong Nai is anticipated to add extra attraction to the 2026/2027 V-League and assist this newcomer in achieving its big dreams.

After many years playing abroad and going through a period of competing in the First Division,Nguyen Cong Phuong is set to make his return to the V-League stage wearing the Dong Nai shirt. The return of the striker from Nghe An is not only significant in professional terms but is also expected to generate additional appeal for the 2026/2027 season, as one of the most beloved stars in Vietnamese football reappears on the highest stage.

Over the past decade, Cong Phuong has always been a name with special influence. Though his form has fluctuated at times, the striker born in 1995 remains a player who draws large crowds whenever he takes the field. Not only does he bring goals and explosive moments, but Cong Phuong also contributes to media buzz, increases attention on matches, and helps the V-League gain more highlights in the race for audience engagement.

This comeback also marks a new turning point in Cong Phuong's career as he becomes a key figure in Dong Nai's ambitious project. The V-League newcomer has not hidden its goal of making an impression in its first season back in the top flight. Having an experienced player who has worn the Vietnam national team jersey for many years like Cong Phuong is seen as a foundation for the Southeast team to build its playing style and identity.

Not only Cong Phuong, but Dong Nai has also been continuously upgrading its squad in the transfer market. The team has recruited defender Nguyen Van Duc, goalkeeper Pham Van Phong, and foreign player Milos Vulic, who has spent many years playing in Serie A and represented the Serbian national team. These quality signings show that Dong Nai is not only aiming for survival but is also ready to compete with the traditional powerhouses of the V-League.

Behind this plan is coach Nguyen Viet Thang, who for the first time has the chance to lead a team in the V-League after many years working with youth teams and in the First Division. Unlike his missed opportunity with Ninh Binh last season, the former Vietnamese international now enjoys strong trust from Dong Nai's leadership and possesses a well-invested squad to realize the ambition of building a proactive and competitive team.

Of course, the gap between expectations and reality remains vast, as the V-League is a tough environment with fierce competition. However, Cong Phuong's return, along with bold moves in the transfer market, is turning Dong Nai into a name worth watching ahead of the new season.If the pieces come together properly, the newly-promoted team could well become a "dark horse," while the 2026/2027 V-League also promises to be more exciting with the reappearance of one of the most beloved stars in Vietnamese football.